Music is widely understood as a key to understanding any culture, but Arab music should be considered a zenith of musical history and progression for the world. Frequently possessing long, haunting melodies and traditional instruments unused in the Western world, Arab music can invoke different feelings in listeners who are unaccustomed to its sounds and… Read more »
Muslim World
The Bektashi Sufi Order in Albania by Dr. SeyedAmir Asghari
Sufism, the inner and spiritual dimension of Islam, boasts a history as old as Islam itself. The chronicles of Sufi orders often intertwine with myths, and the Bektashiyyah order is no exception. The significance, impact, and influence of the Bektashi order since the sixteenth century, especially in the Balkans, are undeniable. Among the communities in… Read more »
On Zakat by Dr. Yusuf Nur
In Islam Zakat can be conceptualized as redistribution of wealth which is integral to Islamic equity and justice. It is an obligatory charity and one of the five pillars of the religion, with the other four pillars being the declaration of faith, the daily prayers, fasting during the month of Ramadan, and pilgrimage to Mecca…. Read more »
Dismantling Islamophobia Through Citizenship Diplomacy by Patrick Lee
Experiences of an American Muslim, Immigration Attorney Sahar Taman* This fall semester, I had the pleasure of meeting Immigration Attorney Sahar Taman during my time as a student in Dr. Iman Alramadan’s 5th-year Arabic class. Ms. Taman is a highly accomplished lawyer, activist, and public servant. It was incredible to hear about her experiences… Read more »
“Nowruz is Upon Us” by Dr. Negar Partow
As the month of March looms on the horizon, many parts of the Middle East and Central Asia are uplifted by the promise of Nowruz—a celebration of hope, resilience, the promise of brighter days and a better year to come. To those who celebrate it, Nowruz isn’t just a date on the calendar. It is… Read more »
Love, Gratitude, and Empowerment: March 8th in Uzbekistan by Shohida Esanova
If you see the men sad, stressfully counting their last money in their pocket, if you see young boys getting sick and missing school, or if your boyfriend breaks up with you for insignificant reasons, you feel that 8th of March is coming. These are some of the jokes associated with one of the biggest,… Read more »
Muslim Youth Camp of California 2023 by Mayesha Awal
This year, I had the privilege of serving as a camp counselor at the California Muslim Youth Camp (MYC) for the second time. My journey to MYC began unexpectedly the previous year. While en route to Lake Michigan in Chicago, I had a serendipitous encounter with a Muslim woman wearing a hijab. I approached her… Read more »
Pearl of the Indian Ocean – Sri Lanka by Hannah Niyaz
Sri Lanka is an island of diverse landscapes, ethnicities, and cultures. This enchanting country, often dubbed the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean,” boasts a rich history shaped by various ethnic groups, each contributing to the unique mosaic that defines Sri Lanka today. As you explore the histories of this island nation, you will encounter… Read more »
“Jesus in the Quran” by Mohamed Khaled Mohamed Sayed
Every year, Christmas brings the commemoration of Prophet Isa, the name of Jesus for Muslims, in which millions of Christians celebrates his birth. Yet, Isa is significant not only for Christians but also for Muslims. The Quran, the sacred scripture for Muslims, venerates Isa and his mother Mariam, Virgin Mary, and appreciates their piety and… Read more »
An American Muslim Perspective on Thanksgiving by Dr. Heather Akou
The United States is not the only country with a “Thanksgiving” celebration. Personally, I do not view Thanksgiving as a religious holiday—at least not one that is specific to Islam or Christianity (or any other religion). Instead, I view it as an opportunity to express gratitude and to connect with friends and family. This year… Read more »